Year 2009, is a forgone conclusion. 2010 is here, there is nothing wrong in taking stock of the past year so as to plan a better 2010. I am not talking about New Year resolutions here, because New Year resolutions are easier made than kept.


So, if we don’t make resolutions, there are still other ways in which we can plan and actually work towards a better and more fruitful year. How do we do that? The best thing is to look at our flaws, faults, bad habits, and failed ambitions, and resolve to do better this year .


We’ve decided to offer a helping hand toward a better year. These are some steps you can take as a man which could help you have a better year; these steps are however, not stereotyped. Whatever works for A might not work for B. Why not check them out and pick one that will help you achieve a better year


Turn your energy into something useful:
We know that not everyone is a skilled handyman, but learning some basic tricks that can help relieve your wife and kids around the house is not a bad idea. First, it saves time and money if you can fix something yourself instead of hiring someone to do it for you. It gives you a great sense of accomplishment when you fix and repair little things in the house.


So this year, make sure you put energy into learning how to do something practical. A manual project is certainly a resolution all men should make.


Read a book
How many great books have we all heard of, but never actually read and perhaps even lied about having read it? This year, make a point of knocking at least one title off that list. There are so many good titles to choose from depending on your interest. From classics, to contemporary titles , you are bound to find something that will appeal to you.


Not only will it make you more erudite, as you discover why that novel is held in such high regard and possibly improve your vocabulary, it may just kick-start a new enthusiasm for reading.


Know your health status
It is a frequently repeated statement that men are singularly bad at visiting their doctor. By and large, men hope that a problem goes away rather than be seen as a weakling.


But we say this year is the time to change that. Make an appointment for a comprehensive medical checkup, even if it is just to confirm that everything is working the way it should be. The importance of good health cannot be overstated; take one small step to help yourself.


Devote more time to your hobbies
It is good to devote time to your career and make the best of it. But what happens to a Jack who is all work and no play? It is all too easy to come home after a hard day at the office, sit on the couch and watch TV.


Remember when you used to have hobbies? Start devoting time to rediscovering those activities. It is a more fulfilling way to spend your time than doing nothing, and it may also allow you to meet some new people. Whether it’s a sport, a musical instrument or other activities, make time for it again.


Conquer a fear
Everyone has fears of one kind or another, and overcoming them can be a real battle. The cheapest and most effective way to overcome your fear is to expose yourself to what you are scared of ,until you get over it. If your fear is having a negative impact on your quality of life, 2010 is the year to make a change.


Reach out and help others
A great way to feel better about yourself is by helping those in need. We realize that not everyone has lots of time to devote to this, but whatever you can do to help is worth doing.


Whether that is volunteering in the church, your club or in your neighbourhood.Or probably helping your elderly landlady carry out her garbage, make 2010 the year when you start thinking about making the world better for everyone else. It is very easy to become self-absorbed and forget there are always people in need of help. Don’t make that mistake this year.